The landlocked province of Agusan del Sur is sandwiched by two mountain ranges both the eastern and western sides. The thick forests and watersheds in these mountain ranges produce tremendous amount of water, creating several tributaries for the legendary Agusan River.

In Agusan del Sur‘s only city, Bayugan, there are around 17 waterfalls tucked and scattered in its hinterlands. According to Engr. Primitivo Alimpoos, the City Planning and Development Officer, these waterfalls can be harnessed to generate substantial amount of hydro-electric power to supply the basic needs of the city’s far-flung communities, developed as eco-tourism destinations, and utilized in irrigating ricefields and vegetable farms.

During my quick visit to Bayugan City, the CPDO assisted me in seeing one of the 17 waterfalls. Located in the hinterlands of Barangay Claro Cortez, Agong-ongon Falls can be reached through an established trail just beside the barangay’s elementary school. Pumped up by adrenaline rush, I was able to reach Agong-ongon Falls in just 25 minutes of fast-paced hiking, a thing that pleasantly surprised my guide.

Agong-ongon Falls has a distinctive beauty that appealed to me rather strongly. The cool waters smoothly and gently flowing down the stream rejuvenated a tired body and soul that had relentlessly wandered about the past six days.

I believe that the beauty and charm of Agong-ongon Falls represents the collective image and qualities of the other 16 falls. And I am very excited to visit Bayugan City and see all the waterfalls in my next visit to this under-the-radar eco-tourism paradise.

How To Get There:

From Manila (air): take any Davao-bound flights of PAL, Cebu Pacific, Zest Air, and Dragon Air.

From Manila (air): take any Butuan-bound flights of Air Philippines and Cebu Pacific.

From Davao City: take a Butuan City-bound Bachelor bus in the Ecoland terminal.

From Butuan City: take a Davao City-bound Bachelor bus in the integrated terminal. Travel time is at one hour.

From Bayugan City: hire a habal-habal for a quicker, easier trip to Brgy. Claro Cortez. Drop at the Barangay Hall.

From Claro Cortez: hire a guide to assist you in going to Agong-ongon Falls.

Note: This is a part of LegendHarry‘s ambitious travel project: Chasing Philippine Waterfalls. Also, this is part of his November 21-29 Northern Mindanao-Caraga-Davao Backpacking Trip.